Preliminary Questions
1. Explain why is circular motion at constant speed not a natural state of motion (according to Galileo).
Circular motion at constant speed is not a natural state of motion because the object requires a net inward force acting on it from an outside body.
2. What do we formally call a change in motion per unit time and which of Newton's laws adequately expresses its relationship with a net force?
Newton's second law says that the force is equal to the differential change in momentum per unit time.
3. What do you call a force that is directed towards the center of circular motion?
A force that is directed towards the center of circular motion is the centripetal force.
1. Explain why is circular motion at constant speed not a natural state of motion (according to Galileo).
Circular motion at constant speed is not a natural state of motion because the object requires a net inward force acting on it from an outside body.
2. What do we formally call a change in motion per unit time and which of Newton's laws adequately expresses its relationship with a net force?
Newton's second law says that the force is equal to the differential change in momentum per unit time.
3. What do you call a force that is directed towards the center of circular motion?
A force that is directed towards the center of circular motion is the centripetal force.